Week 57: "(I Cooked)"

First off, to all my Hermanas reading this: I love you. Okay? Okay.  Now, other items.

5 Questions:
1) Did you get to watch all the sessions of conference?
2) Did any investigators come to watch too?
3) What were your overall feelings about conference?
4) Did you have a favorite talk?
5) What did you learn in conference that will immediately help you in your calling as a missionary?

1. Yes, we did watch all the sessions. However, we watched both morning sessions in Spanish with our one Spanish speaking Hermana who came. It made me realize just how much my Spanish ability has grown over the past year. When i first arrived in the field I could speak Spanish pretty well but understanding what was being said was such a struggle for me. But now, I feel like I not only understand the gist of what is said but I also get a lot of the details. Granted, it helps that they talked about gospel related things because my "worldly" vocabulary leaves something to be desired... But anyway. Yes we watched all the sessions (minus priesthood session of course) and oh boy was it amazing. Exactly what I needed.
2. Unfortunately we had no investigators there. Two were planning on coming but then didn't so we're thinking they may have had to work. And then two told us they might come if their already-made-plans fell through--but they didn't fall through. Ah well. Next week, someone will be at church. I'm going to do all I can to get people there and THEN hand it over to the Lord.
3. Overall feelings about conference? How do you sum up eight hours of a spiritual marathon? I don't think it's possible.... But I suppose if I were to put it into just a few words, it would be this: I know that God is so aware of each and every one of us, particularly me. But I know He doesn't love me anymore than He loves you, whoever you may be, reading this. I know He hears and answers our prayers, but He answers them in His way and in His time. If we are too focused on doing things our way, then we will surely miss the answers and blessings He is trying to give us. The two biggest obstacles of life--death and sin--have been taken care of, through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The next biggest obstacle keeping you from reaching your eternal potential is you. But if you will let God direct you, if you will give your will to Him, He will make far more of you than you could ever make of yourself. So the questions that remains to be asked is this: will you let Him?
4. My favorite talk was President Uchtdorf's from the Saturday morning session. Now, I honestly can't tell you why it was my favorite other than the fact that it was exactly what I needed to hear in the moment that I needed to hear it. Perhaps it was simply because it was the first talk of this semiannual general conference, because all I really needed to know was that God was aware of me, that my Father in Heaven was thinking of me, looking out for me. And from the very moment that President Uchtdorf began speaking, I knew He was there. And that was the only thing I needed to know then.
5. Again, how do you expect me to sum that up? Well, I'll begin with my notes from the talk by Elder Bradley D. Foster. Near the beginning of his talk, he said something to the effect of "Children are just like really young investigators". The very first thought I had from the Spirit was "If children = investigators, investigators = children." So literally everything He said is applicable to missionary work. I loved his example of Helen Keller. Although she was majorly impaired, she was still able to learn--but her teacher had to figure out how to teach her so that she would be able to learn. The way I see it, some of our investigators (the people we teach who are investigating the church) may be more like Helen Keller than a child who can see and hear. Not because they are impaired, but simply because we, as their teachers, have to figure out how they learn so that we can teach to their needs. Some of the people we teach need more guidance while others may come to their own conclusion of what is the truth with us only teaching the doctrine of truth. But however a person may learn, it doesn't matter. Because "it is never too early and never too late to begin the process". As their teachers, we want them to trust us and know that they can come to us with doubts and concerns they may have. We may not be able to answer every question right away, but we know that the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ has all the answers. We also don't want to be too much a part of their lives, but we do want them to know that we are on their side. And when it really comes down to it, it doesn't matter when we're ready to teach; what matters is when they're ready to learn.

Mom Note:  Our friends are serving as mission president and "first lady" of the Athens, Greece Mission, and "first lady" LeeAnn had written to me to ask about something Jill's Mission President is doing with the Chicago West missionaries that they call the activity "Fit for the Kingdom".  She asked about it, so I had told Jill I shared that info:
In response to the question from LeeAnn about Fit for the Kingdom, literally all I know is what is contained in that newsletter. Maybe I'll hear something more this week at zone training but I don't know. Sorry I can't be of more help.

Also, at zone training, our cars will be getting a TiWi system which will help our mission be a little safer. So that's gonna be fun!

As for this last week, let's just say it was really stressful and really funny all at the same time. Here is a brief summary of the not-so-spiritual points of my week:

• we left a note on every single door of a house because we're not exactly sure if someone actually lives there. We'll go back this week and see if anything has changed
• we taught the friend of our investigator and her name is Rita but she goes by the nickname "Guera". For all you gringos, that basically means "white girl". Based on the color of her skin, you'd never guess she's Latina, but she is. Hence, the nickname. (Also, Guera and Gloria both added us on Facebook. We're totally gonna be best buds for life.) (: Also, our investigator was totally doing missionary work, telling her friend that she should read the Book of Mormon. She's the best.
• On Wednesday we did our weekly planning and to begin we asked Heavenly Father to PLEASE help us finish in the time we had, and he did. Final time: 2 hours and 15 mins. All 13 steps. #likeaboss
• We met the cutest old lady this week--named Eva--who didn't want to let us in at first because we weren't from her church but then she did and basically begged to give us coffee or tea. (we said no thanks, in case you're wondering.) So she gave us a granola bar instead. Then, at the end of the lesson, when we asked her to read the Book of Mormon, she exclaimed (I literally mean "exclaimed") "Of course!" She's the cutest abuelita of all time.
• One of our members has been totally AWOL for a week or two now and we haven't been able to contact her. But then we just happened to tract into her daughter, so we found out she's just been playing grandma for a niece who was having a baby--in Kansas.
• Because we awkwardly waited for a man to get out of his car, we were able to teach him about the Book of Mormon (he was pretty excited to read it) and then he gave us each a tamale! (Best day ever! Well, maybe not EVER, but it was pretty awesome...)
• We were asked to give a training in district meeting on preaching the gospel two by two, particularly in door approaches. Man, I don't know what we said but I know we said what the Spirit wanted. It was awesome.
• We prayerfully sought which member we could ask to go with us to an appointment and we found the perfect Amulek for this couple we're teaching--we can't wait for the Brother to go with us too. Also, this couple, in response to the baptismal invitation, said, "We hadn't really thought about that." But then you could just tell that they were definitely thinking about it then. They didn't commit to anything in that very moment but I know they will soon. They are so prepared--they met the missionaries about a year ago and had known missionaries before that--and we are totally going to get them baptized and on the path to eternal life. I love them.
• Had one of the greatest finding lessons of all time this week--I could just feel the Spirit guiding my words and then testifying to them of my words. If they accept our invitation to invite someone to be taught in their home (after praying about whom to invite) I know they'll see miracles.
• We were tracting late at night (about 8:30) and found a young man who basically asked us if he could come to church. We weren't able to teach him much but I have a feeling that the Elders will be able to help him progress quickly and soon.
• I got my flu shot and the pharmacist who shot us was the most funny person with a needle I think I've ever met. It was awesome. When she asked us about if we were pregnant or planning on getting pregnant she said, "I know, with the whole mission thing, but I have to ask." So funny.
• we reached our member present lesson goal for the week--the first day of the week. And then, by the end, we had exceeded it. Heavenly Father is so good to us.
• Elder Renlund, one of the newly called Apostles, was totally in our mission just last month for a mission tour. And he basically told us the same things then that he shared at Conference. So cool. (I am SO excited for these three new Apostles. They're going to be amazing servants of the Lord, as I'm sure they already were.)
• one of our members gave us an early Christmas gift: she knits/crochets (?) and made us both ear headband things and scarves. Oh my goodness she is so good to us. (She asked us if we've ever been to a session of general conference and how we get tickets, and one thing led to another, and I told her she can go with me next Conference since I'll be home. She said okay.)
• Took a member to a lesson and she totally asked for a referral for us--and we got one! "Ask and ye shall receive..."
• for dinner one day we had mac n' cheese and cheese-covered cauliflower. It was so delicious.
• We met an elderly couple who told us right away they weren't interested and, when we asked if we could just give them a card with a picture of Jesus on it, the hermana said, "Where's Mary?!" almost at the top of her lungs. It was probably a good thing I didn't have time to say "In Jerusalem" before they closed the door. They made our day.
• we talked to a couple of people standing on their porch (about the wind chimes hanging) which led to them asking us about this crazy greenhouse light that illuminates the entire sky when there are clouds and then we were able to give them both a card. They were really nice. The man said that anytime he sees missionaries, especially during the summer, he always gives them a water. On behalf of all the missionaries in Illinois, thank you!
• We sent a reminder text to our new investigator couple between sessions on Sunday and at some point during the afternoon session, this was the response we got (which took up five text messages): "Thank you for reminding us!!well we left Freeport at 2:10pm and heading home but weren't sure were to get something to eat!! So when we got to the outside skirts of Rockford we decided to go home!! Poor Ida she is dead tired! After you guys left she beginning getting all her stuff ready for the sale today from 8am till 2pm!! But she didn't finished till 2:30am and we had to get up at 5:30am! Since she wouldn't get up i slept till 6am and then we were rushing to eat breakfast (I cooked) and loading the truck with 5 big bags of Tupperware and 4 small bags and we get there at 8:40 am! But I think we will both be going to sleep very shortly!! Good nite! Jose & Ida!" This text message literally made my entire week about 18 times better. All day Sunday we would crack up, laughing, because this was just so perfect. Love this couple.

So that's that. And then I just wanted to share a "brief" summary of what I learned from conference this weekend and last. I wrote out about a one sentence summary of what I learned either directly from the speaker or through the Spirit. I hope and pray that something that I learned will be beneficial to someone else who reads this. I know that our Heavenly Father loves us and wants to help us, but He usually does so through the people around us.

• Live life (including mission life) one day at a time.
• Doing what God wants gives us the strength and power to face any and all trials.
• I am a part of the cause of Christ. I am bringing people to Him and it is my responsibility to be prepared to receive all the blessings God wants to give me--including eternal marriage.
• Don't dwell on the sad and disappointing things. Look for the good and then focus on it!
• Starting with where you're at now (now where you used to be), look at your life with an eternal perspective and then simplify. It is then you'll be able to become the person you want to be and God wants you to be.
• Be loyal to Christ and all His chosen servants (prophets, apostles, stake presidents, bishops, mission presidents, zone and district leaders, etc.)
• If we want to make our lives something of value, we must center our lives on Jesus Christ, the Master Crafter.
• If there is something "ungood" you're holding on to, it will inhibit you from spiritually progressing if you don't let it go--this includes wanting to do things your way instead of Christ's way.
• I must be humble enough to ask "What lack I yet?" and then faithful enough to change and act according to the response.
• True repentance--true change-- requires consistent diligence in each and every step toward eternal life.
• I must learn to exercise self-control now, as a missionary, in order to be better prepared for whatever curve balls may come after.
• The choices I'm making now are shaping my eternal destiny; I need to be the kind of person I want to marry.
• Although our "nature" may not change, our heart CAN change, and I'm doing better than I think I am.
• The people who sincerely investigate the Church may be compared to children: they're all at different levels but all are capable of learning the truth for themselves (if they want it bad enough and are willing to work for it.)
• Even if I'm stressed or depressed, if I smile, I'll be able to help those who are more stressed or depressed because I have the Gospel of Jesus Christ and a smile. (:
• Sometimes we take on challenges and realize we weren't as ready as we thought, but as we hold fast to the light of Christ, He will sustain us through any and all darkness.
• My motivation as a missionary can't be the equivalent of an investigator's curiosity--it must be pure and simple love; if it's not quite there right now, I can feel to sing the song of redeeming love again as I "bear with patience [mine] afflictions" and turn to the Lord.
• Death and sin are not the only challenges of mortality, but Christ's Atonement covers all that--and everything else.
• Does it really matter where you serve? You can find people to help and teach no matter where you are!
• My call came from Jesus Christ Himself.
• Sometimes we may receive callings or assignments we don't feel qualified to fulfill but remember: the Lord qualifies those whom He calls.
• We cannot fulfill our baptismal covenant unless we learn to see others through God's eyes.
• My job is to keep the vision God has for me at the forefront of my mind, and then to help others do the same. When others lose sight of it, I will be there to comfort them and then to help them remember too.
• Those who cannot withstand the mocking of the world while on the path to eternal life will fall away and then join the mockers and the nay-sayers.
• As we always remember Him, we will be better able to act like Him; it is then that we will have His Spirit to be with us--both literally (because of our baptismal covenant) and figuratively (because we are living like Him).
• It is very possible to have the Spirit with us always, not just occasionally, if we live worthy of it.
• All roads lead to immortality, it's true, but not all roads lead exaltation.
• Don't be deterred; hard can be good!
• There may be times when I will ask if there's no other way, but if I will just keep moving forward, obediently, one step at a time, one day it will end, and one day I'll be exalted with Christ.
• Trust that everything God does is for MY good.
• Things of eternal significance are rarely easy.
• Some followed Christ "for a season" and then "walked with Him no more". I will NOT do that. I will always center my life on Jesus Christ, even after the name tag comes off.
• I need to look for what I can learn from each test and trial, for each has purpose and meaning--I just have to find it.
• God does not spare His chosen servants from afflictions--rather He strengthens them in the midst of them--that includes me.

I'm excited to take on the challenge to "ponderize" a verse of scripture each week for the next 20 years. I'm excited to develop the attributes of a believer and better represent my Savior Jesus Christ. I'm excited to testify of the First Vision and all that followed it, for I know it to be eternal truth. I'm excited for the challenges ahead, for I know that I truly can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (see Philippians 4:13 and Alma 26:12). I'm excited to stand as a witness of God at all times, even and especially when it's hard. I'm excited for this life on earth and for all the opportunities that are provided me by a loving Father in Heaven. I love Him. I serve Him. And I invite each of you to ponder how you can better serve Him, and then do it.

Con Todo Mi Amor,
Tu Hija, Hermana y Amiga,
Hermana DeBuck

Fotos:

We've been trying to catch a family at home that is SUPER busy, but they have three labs that are super friendly, so we took a picture with one. He just wanted to shake my hand. (:

 

Us with our tamales from Jose! Best free food ever.

Two apples, demonstrating the size of my mouth versus the size of Hermana Henricksen's mouth.

 

We were told by our branch president's wife yesterday that McDonald's is now selling breakfast all day. I cannot tell you how much that made my day. Like, for real. I was literally almost crying. No joke. So, here we are, Monday morning, after 10 am, with our breakfast food from McDonald's. Oh what a joyous moment it was.

 So we live right next to some train tracks right? Well, this is what was driving (?) by this morning: John Deere tractors up the wazoo.

Week 29: If Only We Were Hamsters

5 Questions: 

1) Did your box of clothes find you yet?

2) How are the reading lessons going with your investigator?

3) How was the Temple?

4) Do the Nauvoo missionaries serve anywhere else in IL?  Or are they like the temple square missionaries?  Or do you even know?

5) How often do you have district or zone or mission meetings/conferences?  Where do they have them? What kind of travel arrangements do you have to make when you go to those?

Fasten your seatbelts: this is probably the longest email you'll ever get from me--plus pictures.

1. Not yet. I imagine it will next week though, as it's transfer week (as much as we wish it wasn't...)

2. We've actually only taught her twice, but she can write her name as well as "Jesucristo" which is really all you need right? She's also learning the alphabet so we're helping her with that too, but she's had some health complications as well as having to work so it's been hard to meet with her.

3. Just the same as any temple I suppose. Which is to say AMAZING!!! I remember hearing about that quote from a general authority about how you can learn something new in the temple every time you go so I was really trying to learn something new and I did! Heavenly Father definitely answers prayers, in case you were wondering.

4. We actually just talked to one of our investigators about this--she visits Nauvoo frequently. My understanding is that the missionaries serving there serve for 6 months and then go somewhere else, but I'm not sure where. Or if this is actually true to be honest. We did have the opportunity to talk with one of the sisters in the temple as we were leaving and she was saying their mission in the temple is only for a year--she and her husband served in Salt Lake for 5 years, and they were also temple president in one of the Mexico temples, as well as president of the MTC in Colombia so that was super cool!

5. We have district meeting every week, Wednesday at 10:30, unless we have zone training or conference. And I'm not exactly sure for zone training or conference, but I think we have them each once a transfer. In case you're going to ask, here's the difference between training and conference (as far as I can tell): zone conference is longer. And the way it works in our mission, zone conference/training includes two zones; in our case it's the two zones in the Peoria stake--Peoria East and Peoria West. Who comes? All the missionaries serving in those zones, plus President and Sister Fenn, the Assistants to the President, the Tech Elders, and one set of Sister/Hermana Training Leaders. Plus some of the office missionaries, particularly Elder Hall who is the vehicle coordinator and always has some helpful instruction for us (at Sisters Conference it was "How to Not Be Mugged") (:

So this week was awesome.

A. Thursday 19 March 2015: all of the sisters and hermanas in the Illinois Chicago West mission were in Naperville on Thursday to be instructed by our training leaders, Sister and President Fenn. It was amazing! President Fenn spoke about the Priesthood and I feel like I understand so much better now. It was spectacular. ("The Priesthood isn't about men, it's about God." If you read in D&C 132, I can't remember which verse exactly, when it's talking about the blessings we receive if we're faithful to covenants and inherit the celestial kingdom, you'll notice it says "they" and "them" rather than "him" and "his". As women, we are entitled to the exact same blessings as the men, IF we are faithful. There is absolutely NO reason that we would need to hold the Priesthood.)

Sister Fenn spoke about what may be the hardest commandment to keep: "Be ye therefore perfect". She talked specifically about being perfect (as in whole or complete) versus being a perfectionist.

And then all of the sister/hermana training leaders' training were phenomenal. It was just so great. I love women's meetings; there's a certain sense of camaraderie that you can't get any other way.

We were also able to sing, all of the sisters and hermanas, I Believe in Christ for President and Sister Fenn--it was written by Sister Fenn's father so it's a hymn near and dear to the heart. (The sisters sang the first verse, hermanas second, third in parts, and fourth in unison) President and Sister Fenn were both brought to tears. It was really powerful.

Because we live so far away, we drove up to Naperville Wednesday night and slept over at the Hermana Training Leaders' apartment, like we did for mission conference. Then, driving back took a really long time so we had about an hour in our area, but because we worked hard and did everything we could and prayed with faith, we were able to contact 10 new people in that one hour--gas stations are our friend.

B. Saturday 21 March 2015: We had no appointments so we did a lot of finding and contacting people, plus some stop bys, and once again, "I [gave] way to temptations, that the evil one [had] place in my heart to destroy my peace and afflict my soul". But, we were able to work through it and we were stronger afterwards and then we were able to contact 40 new people throughout the day! It was amazing.

C. Monday 23 March 2015: Since we went to the temple today, Monday was a regular proselyting day, and we ended up having appointments almost all day--we taught 5 lessons in total--so we had next to no time to do any contacting. Our last appointment was at 7:30, but due to regular life circumstances, we were late to that appointment and therefore got out late. We ended up with approximately 5 minutes to contact, and we had only invited 5 people earlier in the day. However, we were determined to invite as many people as possible so we parked at the McDonald's on Main Street and started walking. We had found and invited 4 people then had to go back to the car; so we were at 9 for the day. I was praying so hard, "Heavenly Father, please let someone be coming out of McDonald's when we come around the corner." Then, we turn the corner and I look at the door: two young men are walking out. So I do what any missionary would do: "Hey! Can we give you a card?" If that's not an answer to a prayer, I don't know what is. I know that Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers, and rewards us exponentially when we put forth even a little bit of effort. It was amazing. 

D. La familia Albrechtsen: we didn't have a dinner appointment on Sunday so they invited us over. Monday we had dinner and a lesson in their home. They drove us missionaries to the temple today. Basically, they're just going to adopt us. Mom, Dad, I don't think I'm ever coming home. 

As far as this week goes, it's gonna be awesome! As long as Tuesday never comes, we'll be fine. Hermana Araujo and I are tearing it up here in Bloomington-Normal. Three of our investigators--a family--are on date for 25 April but we are doing everything we can to help the mom be baptized this Saturday. She's so ready and she loves the Gospel and the Church. I know it's possible.

Something I learned this week during personal study comes from 3 Nephi chapter 3. I read about Gidgiddoni, who was made chief commander of the armies. In verse 19, we read that he had the spirit of revelation and also prophecy, and then that Gidgiddoni was a prophet among the people. Then, in verse 20, we see that the people want to attack the robbers (rightly so, I think. They were pretty bad dudes.) And the people want their prophet, their commander, to pray to the Lord and basically say "this is what we're gonna do". But, in verse 21, their great prophet tells them "Uh no. I don't think so. That ain't gonna fly." And so from all this, we learn that the people CANNOT counsel the prophet, but the prophet can and should counsel the people. This is because he has been authorized, given authority, by the Lord to do so. We can trust our prophets because they have this authority. They will not lead us astray because they are God's mouthpiece. "You can always trust living prophets." (True to the Faith)

I know the Gospel is true, and that families CAN be together forever. This is only made possible through the priesthood power and authority of God, which was restored to the earth through God's chosen prophet, Joseph Smith. He could not have done what he did without divine help, and I know that he had it. Through which, he was able to translate the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ so that we can know how to return to live with God again after this life. God is our Heavenly Father, and He wants us to return to Him. Because He loves us, He has provided one way. There's no need to be confused about which road to take because there are only two: the one that leads to our heavenly home and eternal life, and the one that leads to eternal misery with the enemy of our souls. It is an easy decision for me. Which one will you choose?

Todo Mi Amor,

Tu Hija y Amiga,

Hermana DeBuck

P.S. 

Can anyone tell me why I have perpetual hiccups? It's the strangest thing. One day we counted and was 60 times. But it's not like a regular bout of hiccups...I'll hiccup once and then anywhere from 1 minute to an hour or so later, I'll hiccup again. We think it's more prevalent when I've been sitting for a while....I'm not sure what's wrong.

Also, we talked to a recently returned Elder in the Normal ward, who served in the San Jose mission--including in Gilroy. I said my grandparents live there, the Boomgaardens. His response: "No way!" He said Brother Boomgaarden told the greatest stories about cars. Yup, that's my grandpa! (: haha so that was pretty cool.

I meant to say this last week, and maybe I did but I'm not sure: keep your eye out for calf-length skirts. I wear basically the same three skirts every day because the other ones I have are just short enough to make me feel like I'm not being exactly obedient. Just if you see any, make note or something. That's my suggestion for a birthday box of some kind....just so you know. I dunno if there are gonna be many available as it's beginning to get into springtime so they'll probably just have shorter and shorter skirts. But just so you know. Thanks! (:

Fotos:

 

One of the Relief Societies had an International Night, and one of the sisters brought these (she's from Canada) (:

Note from Jill's Mom:  These are the exact treats we adopted from a set of our cousins--whose other grandma is from Canada--they are called Nanaimo Bars and are a favorite family holiday TREAT at our home.

 

We played "the prayer game" with some members and an investigators, talking about how we need to ask actual questions in order to receive answers. So fun!

Us at the temple this morning! Aren't we cute? (I have more pictures, but they'll have to wait until another week...)

  

Mom Note: This group picture was shared on a Mission Moms page--Hma DeBuck didn't share it, but it was from this temple trip, so I include it for all the grandma and grandpas' sakes..

Week 27: "What IS that? A Potion?" "A Smoothie...."

5 Questions:

1) How are your shoes holding up?  Boots still keeping your feet warm and dry?

2) Did I tell you Aubrie B. (from the 3rd ward) was getting married in June?  Do you remember her from camp?

3) In case I never told you, THANK YOU for doing all the hard work on scholarships without me!  I just sat down with Cameron to do the essay for one.  Yikes!  You'd think I was burning him with hot coals. I guess that one wasn't really a question.  Oh well.

4) I found two new undershirts.  Do you want me to send them now, or wait a few more weeks.  They are short sleeved.

5) How are things going with your newest Companion, now that you've been together  couple of weeks?

1. The new boots are great! haha unfortunately the snow is practically melted and it feels like spring time, but they're awesome! I will be very glad for them next winter, I promise you that. [I am so glad this winter wasn't a polar vortex like last winter....that was my biggest/most prominent fear with this mission call.]

2. No you didn't tell me. But yes I remember her. She's into Harry Potter, therefore I like her. haha but if I remember correctly, wasn't she Bellatrix or Prof. Trelawney for Halloween one year? Tell her congratulations for me please! Thanks (:

3. You're welcome. Basically I just didn't want to have to have a job during school....at least for the first year.

4. If you could send them, that would be great. And if it's not too much trouble, can I bother you to send a few of the shirts I have? I'm realizing that I have a lot of long sleeved shirts and now that it's getting warmer....I think I'll want some short sleeved shirts too. But I don't want you to have to send me a package every transfer mom. It's expensive! No rush, really. Also, haha you don't need to send me candy every time. Like, don't. Please. [DO send: I know I have a black/white striped shirt, light blue shirt, and i think a purple shirt that are all short sleeves. Could you send those? It'd be much appreciated.]

5. It's going well! Hermana Araujo is like the sister I never had in that we don't get along super well sometimes but we still always love each other. We're learning to communicate because we communicate in different ways--not bad, just different. Well, I probably communicate badly. haha but it's a work in progress. It's good though, overall.

First off: I am so grateful that EVERYONE in the Illinois Chicago West mission is/strives to be exactly obedient. Just saying.

Second: Wow. I'm tired. I don't even know what happened this week.... So let's make a list:

1. In a study room of the Bloomington library, we taught a four-fingered man who LOVES the Bible.

2. A woman we taught was kinda sort of deaf and I was sitting just too far away from her (I guess) so I basically yelled anything I wanted to say during the lesson.

3. Hermana Araujo kind of told me I sound like a Mexican. Woohoo!

4. We're going to teach Julia how to read. She was so excited that she was almost sweating. I'm so excited too.

5. We ate at a place called Windy City Weiners today and got chili cheese dogs. I think I still prefer Weinerschnitzel but it was good.

6. It's finally spring time! I mean, it was 51 degrees Fahrenheit this weekend! it was amazing. Like, I don't even need to wear a coat nor leggings. Glorious I tell you. (:

7. I still think talking to drunk people is one of the funniest things we get to do as missionaries. Sometimes it's weird, but sometimes it's funny.

8. Sister Goodman in Bloomington 1st ward, is my new role model. She's so happy and positive and kind all the time. She told us about this process she does of mental self evaluation basically anytime she has a mean thought. "Is this thought harming me and my spiritual growth? Is it bringing me closer to the Savior or taking me further from Him?" It's brilliant. She ought to write a book. (: haha she's lovely. Plus, she's from Louisiana and has a cute accent.

9. I finished my first chapstick and my first pen this week. The next pen I used is basically an exact replica of the first so no problems there. But the new chapstick I was using made my lips feel swollen. Oh man. No bueno.

10. I guess I could update you on my own personal pride cycle. Okay. So, let's face it: I'm a prideful human being. But I have accomplished the first step of repentance: recognition. And now I'm working on doing the actual changing. But I think I'm getting better at noticing right away that I need to change my behavior. The hard part is making the change right then and forgetting about whatever happened. Luckily, mi companera is very patient with me, and also forgiving. She's amazing I tell you. Of course we have our differences but at the end of the day, those don't matter. We're both here to work, we're both daughters of a Heavenly Father, and we're sisters. So the biggest thing I'm working on is just forgetting the things that bother me or irritate me or anger me and focusing on what's most important: saving souls. And that's what I've been told all along but I was so prideful that I didn't even recognize that I had a problem and the truth hurts (1 Nephi 16:2) but now I am very intent to keep Satan out of my head and stop letting him control me. I am in control of my own thoughts and my emotions and my body, not him. And as I learn to rely on the Savior, I know I can overcome any temptation that comes my way.

One thing I learned this morning: while I was studying obedience, I read 1 Nephi 3:7. I know you know it:"for I know that the Lord giveth no commandment unto the children of men save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth" [or something  like that] 

What I learned this morning is that God will "prepare a way" in two different manners:

1. You are able to be obedient to the commandment

2. You try to be obedient put give in to temptation and do not, accept and use the Atonement, repent, and try again. You repeat this process until you are able to keep the commandment.

And that was just beautiful to me! I know God wants me to be humble so that I may be a better instrument in His hands. And although I may not succeed the first time, I know that He will provide a way for me to be humble in the end. All I have to do is give it my all, and I know he will provide a way.

Unfortunately, I am about 50 pages behind in my Book of Mormon reading challenge. ....oops. But you know what, I think it's because I've been trying to study more for my investigators. And of course I always learn things from the Book of Mormon and usually something for them, but I think it might be better this way. I'll just have to read like 100 pages today. haha (I wish I could just read the Book of Mormon all day. That's going on the bucket list.) (:

I know the Gospel's true. This is the restored Church of Jesus Christ and He is at the head. He works through living prophets and apostles and I am so excited for General Conference. I know we will hear the voice of the Lord as we listen to His chosen servants. I know that Joseph Smith was foreordained to be the prophet of this dispensation. Through him, Jesus Christ restored His Gospel to the earth once more, never to be taken again. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God because it has changed my life. It truly is the tool to gather scattered Israel in these latter days. I know that through the Atonement of my Brother and Savior, Jesus Christ, my weaknesses can be made strengths (Ether 12:27) so that I am able to fulfill every command that He gives me (1 Nephi 3:7).

Todo Mi Amor,

Tu Hija y Amiga,

Hermana DeBuck

Week 26: It's Official: I've Become My Mother

5 Questions:

1)    Do you remember taking a tour of USU before deciding to go there?  Or did you decide to go there and then tour the campus?  I couldn't remember this weekend, as Cameron has decided and we finally got to go tour it. 

2)    Any memory of what kind of "fun money" budget you had at school last year?

3)    Did you remember it was Dad's birthday this past week?  He loved the book--and has been reading it all weekend.

4)    Can you believe Daylight Savings Time is beginning NEXT Sunday already?!?

5)    What is your typical procedure to send photos/email to us each P-Day?  Where do you go?  How long do you have?

Those are some good lookin' parents! Glad to see Dad still can't smile when a camera is near, but at least he's looking at the lens. Baby steps right? haha and momma your glasses make you look extra smart! I mean, not that you need any help....haha it always was a little weird getting a new prescription of glasses for me too. Takes some getting used to.

1. I think I had already decided because it was going to be the cheapest option for me. Then we went in the spring for SOAR or whatever it was. I think I did tour U of U before I decided though...just because we were already in Salt Lake or something. Clearly it didn't really affect my decision.

2. In reality, I don't think I gave myself a budget. I started out with one, but I don't think I stuck with it--I know, it's terrible. Basically I didn't spend a ton of money except for on food; that was almost everything. If we went to dinner as roommates or something, I didn't have a problem with that. I think I just limited it to once a week MAX. And just tried to be conscientious of my money. Sorry that doesn't help a ton.

3. I remembered it was Dad's birthday on Dad's birthday because it's on the calendar. Unfortunately I couldn't do much about it the day of....so HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAPI!! Glad you like the book. I'll be honest, when I bought it, I had relatively little idea what it was actually about. So I'm glad it's handy and not useless.

4. No. It feels like just last month was Daylight Savings....because it messes up our Area Book Planner app. And it feels like that just happened...but I guess not.

5. Usually we go to the church in the afternoon, around 2 or so, because we've finished cleaning and shopping and laundry and whatnot. Today is different though, which I will talk about more later on.

First off, this week I turned into a complete sobbing blubbering baboon. And while there are multiple causes for this outcome, there is only one I will be mentioning at this time: I have been so very prideful. And it's gotten me into trouble, and will continue to do so unless I do something about it.

Hence, I have done quite a bit of self-evaluation. And I have come to a variety of conclusions:
1. I have terrible communication skills, and the way in which I do manage to communicate is not a way people are used to.

2. I detest making decisions, which is in fact a life skill. Ergo, I need to develop said skill.

3. I need to be more humble. I need to accept when I am in the wrong, accept the constructive criticism and run with it, apply it. I need to be willing to change and improve so that I can be the missionary Heavenly Father wants me to be.
4. I need to stop taking things so personally; this would avoid a lot of confusion.
5. I need to show more emotion so that I can be properly understood. [Remember when Grandma and Grandpa gave me my Escort for my birthday? And Grandpa thought I didn't like it? yeah, that's basically what happens. I truly am excited but I don't do a very good job of acting like it....sorry again Grandpa.]
6. I need to forget myself and go to work--24/7. If I do this, everything else will (hypothetically) fall into place.

As you can tell, this is quite the list. And becoming humble--for me--is quite the process. So I'm beginning with just one of these issues and hopefully the rest will follow. Until that time, there will
most likely be continued confusion and irritation. And I'm not sure what else I can do about it. I guess only time will tell.

On a happier note, Bishop found Mary's membership record number! What a miracle. Now the process to get her re-baptized will get going, I think. She was so excited to tell us. It was awesome.

We have seen so many miracles already! I think I said that last week, but it's still true! Hermana Araujo is an amazing missionary, and just wants to work hard. It's inspiring, really. I've been thinking that I have been SO blessed to have such old (with regard to the mission) companions. Because when it gets down to crunch time, all they want to do is work. And of course I want to as well, but with companions like this it's just so much better. I can't really explain it.

This morning, while studying, I found this scripture, in Proverbs 28:25:
He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat.

So the goal is, by the end of my mission, to be fat. Maybe this is one reason so many missionaries put on weight while serving. They're just putting their trust in the Lord! haha (but for real)

I know the Gospel's true! If it wasn't, you can bet I wouldn't be here freezing my body parts off. But it is. Joseph Smith is a prophet called of God, and through him Christ restored His true Church to the earth once more. The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ and allows us to know more fully our Elder Brother and Savior. I receive strength every day as I study from its pages, and I know you can too. I know that through the Atonement, we truly can be made perfect and become at one with God--we just have to put forth a little effort first, and He'll make up the rest. I love this Gospel and I wouldn't be me without it.

Todo Mi Amor,

Tu Hija y Amiga,

Hermana DeBuck